The theme of our Jubilee Year, “Witnessing to the Light, from Everywhere for Everyone,” has resonated deeply within my heart and mind as I am applying for Perpetual Vows and First Assignments. It reminds me this is a call to all of us in the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) with a renewed commitment to our core identity and mission, writes SVD student Peter Wang.

Over the past 10 years, my formation in both China and Australia has been with the love and guidance of Jesus Christ. In China, I witnessed the resilience and faith of the people, their unwavering devotion to the Gospel even in the face of challenges. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and humility in my own spiritual journey. In Australia, I was exposed to a diverse and multicultural environment that broadened my understanding of the world and deepened my commitment to the SVD mission. Here, I learned to appreciate the beauty of different cultures and traditions, while also recognising the universal call to bring the light of Christ to all people.

As I prepare for Perpetual Vows, I am increasingly aware of the responsibility that comes with this commitment. “Witnessing to the Light, from Everywhere for Everyone” calls me to be a light of hope and compassion, to shine the light of Jesus Christ in every corner of the world. The phrase ‘witnessing the light’ reminds me of Jesus Christ, the light of the world, whose words play a crucial role in our lives. We are called to share His love, compassion, and truth, spreading His light in every dark corner of the world. This is not just a witness, but a positive struggle that requires us to showcase our unique talents, challenge ourselves, and bravely spread the gospel to those seeking justice and peace in the world.

The meaning of “from Everywhere for Everyone” highlights the broad and inclusive nature of our mission. In other words, it is "serving the world and benefiting everyone". Our mission is not limited to one place or group, but spans across the globe, serving people of different races, cultures, and backgrounds. As an international society, we have undergone training, learning, and living together during our formation journey, which serves as an excellent model for sharing and extending our way of life with people in the world when we become a missionary in the future. Just like our mission transcends boundaries and embraces the entire human race with the love of God. Despite our different cultural backgrounds, we can come together in a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect. We are called to reach out to everyone, especially those who are most in need, such as indigenous peoples, migrants, refugees, and the marginalised. This is a call for us to recognise the dignity and value of every individual, to see the shadow of Christ in every person, it is good connection with our Catholic Social Teaching.

In this Jubilee Year, I am reminded that our mission is not just about what we do but also about who we are becoming. As we strive to witness to the Light, we are transformed by it, becoming more like Christ in our thoughts, words, and actions. This transformation is a lifelong process, requiring us to remain open to the grace of God, to be humble learners, and to constantly seek His guidance and direction. I am grateful for the formation I have received, which has equipped me with the necessary tools to answer this call. The lessons I learned in China and Australia have prepared me to serve the Church with an open heart and a steadfast spirit. I am ready to embrace the challenges and joys of my First Assignment, confident that the light of Christ will continue to guide me.

During this special year, we are called to be living witnesses of our faith, and this path is not a straight and narrow one, but one filled with twists and lessons. It demands that we continuously accept God's sanctifying grace. Every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, every moment of contemplation, is part of our call to embody the image of Christ. As we become more like Christ, may we reflect His light more clearly, drawing others towards the source of hope and life. May our transformation serve as an eternal testament to the work of God's grace within us, from now until forever.

PHOTO: Peter is pictured at the opening Mass of the SVD 150th Jubilee Year in September.